Ep. 128 - Deck the Halls with Christmas Tunes, Christmas Movies and Tales of Christmas Cheer

Ever wondered how a warm, vinyl groove of Otis Redding's "Merry Christmas Baby" might duke it out with Band Aid's controversial "Do They Know It's Christmas?" for a spot on your holiday playlist? Well, strap in your sleigh bells, because that's exactly the kind of festive face-off we're bringing in this jolly jaunt through Christmas music and movies. Alongside music aficionados Mark Smith, Luke Collichio, and the ever-insightful guest from Music Relish, we're stirring the eggnog of debate, sprinkling in some hearty laughs, and, yes, even airing a few grievances in true Festivus style!

This episode isn't just your average sleigh ride over well-trodden snow; we're taking you on a globetrotting journey to the Philippines and back, reflecting on how holiday music hits home, no matter where you find yourself in December. From the modernized lyrics of John Legend's "Baby, It's Cold Outside" to the life-changing journey that had me flying high over a snowy St. Louis with The Pretenders crooning in my ears, we're unpacking the stockings full of nostalgia, culture, and those Christmas songs that make us cringe just as much as they warm our hearts. And it's not all about the tunes—we've got Christmas movies on the bill too, from the dark and emotional to the downright bizarre.

So, whether you're wrapping gifts or roasting chestnuts by the fire, let us be your holiday soundtrack. We're dishing out movie recommendations that'll have you pondering the cinematic history of Mrs. Claus, debating the cultural nuances of "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians," and reflecting on the power of music and film to shape our holiday experiences. Don't be a Scrooge—join me, Scott McLean, and the gang for a holiday hootenanny that promises more twists and turns than a tinsel-tangled Christmas tree.